Health-related-quality-of-life and toxicity after single fraction 19 Gy high-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy: Phase II trial

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the safety, tolerance and impact on health-related-quality-of-life (HRQoL) of the high-dose-rate brachytherapy of 19 Gy (BRT-HDR-19 Gy) single fraction in prostate cancer. Methods From January 2014 to July 2016, 43 patients with low/intermediate risk were treated with BRT-HDR-19 Gy. The patients were monitored prospectively for toxicity and HRQoL. Results The median age, initial PSA and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) were 71 years (55–78), 7.0 ng/mL (4.2–17.8) and 5 (0–14) respectively. 44% were low-risk and 56% intermediate-risk. Median CTV-V100 (where Vn is the fractional volume of the organ that receives n % of the prescribed dose) was 96.5%, Urethral-Dmax 106% and rectum-2 cc (the dose to 2 cc of rectal wall) 53%. After a median follow-up of 20 months (4–26), acute grade-2 genitourinary (GU) toxicity occurred in 4 patients (9%) and none presented acute gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity. Similarly, four patients (9%) presented late GU grade-2 toxicity. No grade-3 toxicity occurred. In terms of HRQoL, there was a statistically significant decline in Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) urinary urgency/obstructive domain at month 3 ( p  = 0.047), and returned to baseline by month 6. Mean EPIC urinary incontinence, bowel, sexual and hormonal domains did not present significant post BRT-HDR-19 Gy changes. Patients rated their satisfaction at 6 months as “very-satisfied” (23%) or “extremely-satisfied” (77%). Conclusions BRT-HDR-19 Gy demonstrates excellent results in terms of toxicity, tolerance, safety, patient satisfaction and HRQoL.